Reds set to win race for Ruud

Liverpool are ready to take Ruud van Nistelrooy on loan for six months when the January transfer window opens.

The former Manchester United striker, who underwent a successful operation to have his tonsils removed yesterday, is desperate to leave Real Madrid to play regular football and be part of Holland's World Cup squad.

Liverpool are reluctant to sign Van Nistelrooy permanently but manager Rafa Benitez knows he needs someone to play alongside Fernando Torres to rekindle the Reds' season.

However, the Bernabeu hierarchy are determined to off load the 33-year-old on a permanent basis and any switch will rely on Benitez persuading the Spanish giants to let him have the striker on loan.

Van Nistelrooy is fit after a long-term knee injury but with Raul, Cristiano Ronaldo, Kaka, Higuain and Karim Benzema ahead of him his chances at the Bernabeu are limited.

Arsenal and Blackburn Rovers have also shown an interest in Van Nistelrooy but the striker is believed to favour a move to Anfield.

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